Software Companies in Bangladesh 

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on software companies or industries in Bangladesh! The software development industry in Bangladesh has been rapidly growing over the past decade, with a surge in demand for high-quality software solutions. From small startups to large multinational corporations, there are numerous software companies in Bangladesh that offer a diverse range of services to clients worldwide. In this blog, we will delve into the top 10 software development companies in Bangladesh, including the industry leader Kaz Software. We will explore their unique strengths and capabilities, as well as the latest trends and technologies in the industry. Bangladesh’s software industry is thriving, with around 110 IT solution companies focused primarily on the domestic market, specializing in ERP, HR software, accounting, and more.

The software and information technology-enabled services (ITES) industry is one of the most promising sectors of Bangladesh as well, driven by a large pool of efficient young professionals, a collaborative environment with the government, dynamic leadership from the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Service (BASIS), and positive media involvement. Over the past two decades, Bangladesh has made significant strides in the software industry, transitioning from a hardware vendor market to an ICT-driven society. Today, the industry is estimated to be worth around $700 million, with over 800 registered software and ITES companies, as well as numerous unregistered small and home-based software and IT ventures doing business for both local and international markets. The industry employs approximately 70,000 professionals, mostly IT graduates, making it a vital contributor to the country’s economy. So, whether you’re a software developer, a business owner, or simply curious about the software industry in Bangladesh, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

History of Software

 It all began in the 19th century when Charles Babbage came up with the concept of a “difference engine” – a mechanical calculator that could perform complex mathematical calculations. It wasn’t until the 1940s, however, that we saw the first electronic computers, and with them, the birth of software.

At the time, programming languages were limited, and the software was created using low-level machine code, a laborious and time-consuming process. It wasn’t until the 1950s that we saw the emergence of high-level programming languages like FORTRAN and COBOL, making the software development process more accessible to the masses.

The 1960s saw the birth of the operating system, with IBM’s System/360 paving the way for modern computer systems. By the 1970s, we saw the rise of the personal computer, with companies like Apple and Microsoft leading the charge. The 1980s and 1990s saw rapid advancements in software development, with the emergence of graphical user interfaces, the internet, and mobile computing.

Today, we live in a world of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, where software is ubiquitous and essential to our daily lives. The history of software is a never-ending story, with new technologies and innovations constantly emerging, pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible. One thing’s for sure – software is here to stay, and we can’t wait to see where it takes us next!

First Software Company in Bangladesh

 The first software company in Bangladesh was founded in the early 1980s when the country was still in its infancy when it came to technological innovations. It was called DataSoft and it served as the first major milestone in the development of the Bangladeshi IT sector. DataSoft produced a variety of software solutions, including financial management, payroll, and inventory management systems. While it struggled for a few years in the early stages of its founding, DataSoft quickly gained momentum during the technology boom of the mid-90s. Other software development companies soon followed suit, and today the IT sector in Bangladesh is thriving, with over 800 software and IT-based service companies operating in the country.

Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services ( BASIS)

The Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) serves as the national trade organization for companies in the software and IT-enabled services industries in Bangladesh. Since its establishment in 1997, BASIS has grown to include over 1,000 member companies, ranging from start-ups to multinational corporations. The organization strives to promote the growth and vibrancy of the IT industry in Bangladesh by facilitating networking, advocacy, and knowledge-sharing opportunities among its members. In partnership with the government, academia, and other stakeholders, BASIS has been instrumental in creating an environment that fosters the development of the IT sector. The organization has played a significant role in policy-making, knowledge transfer, and skill development, as well as in encouraging entrepreneurship, innovation, and foreign investment. Thanks to its efforts, the IT industry in Bangladesh has grown considerably, and the country has emerged as a major player in the global IT services market.

BASIS began with only 17 charter members, but its membership has since grown to more than 1,100 companies. These members account for a substantial portion of the total revenue generated by the software and IT services industry in Bangladesh. BASIS has several objectives, including developing the domestic market, promoting the industry at the international level, building capacity, providing member services, advocating for business-friendly policies, and making social contributions. Through various programs and activities, BASIS aims to create awareness among potential IT users, establish marketplaces for IT solutions, and ensure a level playing field for local companies. The organization also works to build the capacity of its members and the industry as a whole through management and entrepreneurship development initiatives, technology training, and resource sharing. BASIS provides various operational and business support services, such as financing, tax, export/import, remittance, foreign visits, contract and legal issues, and intellectual property rights. Finally, BASIS strives to engage with the young generation and motivate them to become future technology leaders, thereby contributing to the long-term national vision of becoming a technology-driven knowledge economy.

Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS)

Established in 1987, this organization serves as a national association for software enterprises, including hardware and software sellers, wholesalers, assemblers, and developers. As of December 2022, the organization boasts 2,353 members. It’s worth noting that many businesses hold membership in both BASIS and BCS.

Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC)

As a department within the Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology, this independent agency is dedicated to providing support for various IT-related activities.

Popular Software categories work in Bangladesh

Web development

Web development has played a significant role in propelling Bangladesh into the digital age. A heaping heap of web developers operates as both freelancers and professionals at software development companies, fueled by the country’s growing demand for digital services.

As it stands, around 50% of Bangladesh’s ICT enterprises are offering web design and development services to their clients. And with more citizens gravitating toward digitization, the need for web development has skyrocketed. Companies are scurrying to establish an online presence to tap into the expanding pool of online audiences.

Mobile app development

On a daily basis, people worldwide spend an average of 3.25 hours glued to their mobile devices. It’s hard to imagine that not too long ago, mobile phones were considered a rare luxury item. However, nowadays, they are an indispensable necessity for almost everyone old enough to own one. With the help of multiple social media apps, greater connectivity features, and other software components embedded into the phone, mobile devices have become our go-to tools for social connections, communications, entertainment, and even financial transactions.

Mobile applications have proven to be an excellent marketing tool for businesses in Bangladesh, and most companies seem to have already cracked the code. With their convenient usability and user-friendly experience, mobile apps allow businesses to retain existing customers and attract new ones with ease.

The beauty of mobile applications is that they meet the needs of both clients and business owners. They make buying and selling products more straightforward with modern UX and secure payment options like Bkash, Nagad, etc. This results in more potential sales and happy customers.

Top 10 Software Companies in Bangladesh

Here are the top 10 software companies in Bangladesh:

1. Grameenphone IT:  Grameenphone is one of the leading software companies in Bangladesh, providing a wide range of IT solutions and services, including software development, business process outsourcing, and digital marketing.
   
2. Augmedix Bangladesh: A subsidiary of the US-based Augmedix Inc, providing medical documentation services and healthcare technology solutions to healthcare providers and institutions in the US.
   
3. bKash Limited: A mobile financial services provider in Bangladesh, offering a variety of digital financial services, including mobile payments, money transfers, and bill payments. It is also a mobile application development software.
   
4. SSL Wireless: A leading digital services company in Bangladesh, providing mobile banking, mobile payment, and other digital services to financial institutions and businesses.
   
5. Brain Station 23 Limited: A software development and IT consulting company, offering a wide range of IT solutions and services, including custom software development, web application development, and mobile app development.
   
6. Southtech Limited: A leading software development company, providing business automation solutions, financial management software, and custom software development services.
   
7. TechnoVista Limited: A software development and IT consulting company, providing solutions and services in areas such as e-Government, e-Commerce, and enterprise applications.
   
8. DataSoft Systems Bangladesh Limited: A software development company, providing enterprise solutions, custom software development, and IT consulting services.
   
9. SQA Solution Limited: A software development company, specializing in software testing and quality assurance services.
   
10. Daffodil Software Limited: It is one of the software and information technology companies, providing custom software development, web application development, and mobile app development services.
    

These companies in the country have made significant contributions to the growth and development of the software industry in Bangladesh and have established themselves as industry leaders and randomly worked together with the development teams.

How many IT companies are there in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh has a growing IT industry and has been making steady progress in the last decade. The country has become known for its skilled IT professionals and low-cost services. According to a report by the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), there are currently more than 1,000 registered software and IT service companies in Bangladesh. These companies provide a wide range of services including software development, IT consulting, web design, and digital marketing. The government is also providing various incentives to support the growth of the IT industry in Bangladesh. With an increasing number of skilled resources, affordable infrastructure, and government support, the IT industry in Bangladesh is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years.

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ICT industry in Bangladesh problems and prospects

The ICT industry in Bangladesh has made significant progress in recent years, but it still faces some challenges. One of the main problems is the lack of skilled professionals in the industry. The education system in the country does not provide enough quality education and training to produce a sufficient number of skilled workers. This issue is further exacerbated by the fact that many talented professionals are lured by better job opportunities in other countries.

Another major issue is the lack of proper infrastructure and government support. Despite some progress, the country’s internet speed and connectivity still lag behind other developing countries. The government needs to invest more in building digital infrastructure and providing incentives to attract foreign investment in the ICT sector.

Despite these challenges, there are also several prospects for the ICT industry in Bangladesh. The country has a large population with a high level of digital literacy and a growing middle class that is increasingly connected to the internet. This presents an enormous market for the industry to tap into. Additionally, the government has made efforts to promote the sector, such as the establishment of technology parks and tax incentives for IT companies.

6 top industries for Software engineering careers

In the world of software companies, engineering reigns supreme. Software engineers are the architects of the company’s success, responsible for bringing their ambitious visions to life by developing innovative software products, maintaining existing ones, and implementing cutting-edge features and functionalities. These professionals are the technical wizards who use their expertise and problem-solving skills to create top-quality software solutions that meet the needs of both the company and its customers. Keeping up with the latest technological advancements and industry trends is also critical to ensure that the software stays ahead of the curve. In a nutshell, engineering is the lifeblood of any thriving software company, and the absence of skilled and dedicated engineers can quickly lead to the company falling behind its rivals. With the ever-increasing demand for cloud computing, big data and analytics, and mobile solutions, software engineering is a career path that promises steady growth and employment opportunities. However, with so many options available, IT professionals starting out or looking to rebrand themselves may find it challenging to determine their next career move.

1. Retail

A career in software engineering in the retail sector can be both exciting and challenging. The retail industry has been revolutionized by the software industry, and the demand for software engineers in this sector is on the rise. Software engineers play a critical role in developing and maintaining software solutions that power the retail industry. These professionals use their technical expertise and creativity to build innovative software applications that enhance the customer experience, optimize supply chain management, and drive sales growth. They work on projects such as developing point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and e-commerce platforms, among others. Additionally, software engineers in the retail sector have the opportunity to work on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics, which are transforming the retail industry. A career in software engineering in the retail sector can be rewarding, as it offers the opportunity to work on challenging projects and to make a significant impact on the industry. With the retail industry poised for further growth and technological advancements, there has never been a better time to consider a career in software engineering in the retail sector.

2. Healthcare

It’s a fascinating space that’s ripe with opportunities for software engineers looking to make a difference in people’s lives. In this fast-paced industry, software engineers are the superheroes who use their technical prowess to build software solutions that enhance patient care, improve clinical workflows, and drive innovation. They work on exciting projects such as developing electronic health records (EHR) systems, medical imaging software, and telemedicine platforms that allow patients to receive medical care from the comfort of their homes. With emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) being integrated into healthcare software solutions, software engineers have the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry. A career in software engineering in the healthcare sector offers the satisfaction of knowing that the work you do is making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Plus, with the healthcare industry growing at an exponential rate, the demand for skilled software engineers is only going to increase. So if you’re looking for a career that allows you to use your technical skills to make a meaningful impact, software engineering in the healthcare sector is definitely worth considering.

3. Development and research

Let’s talk about the software industry in research and development! As a software engineer in this field, you have the chance to work on some truly cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s developing software solutions for scientific research, engineering new software tools for product development, or designing software for testing and analysis, the opportunities are endless. The software industry in research and development is all about innovation and collaboration, where engineers work alongside researchers and scientists to create new breakthroughs in their respective fields. With a focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics, software engineers in research and development have the chance to work on projects that are shaping the future of our world. It’s a career path that’s both challenging and rewarding, with the opportunity to work on projects that have a real-world impact.

4. Business/IT services

As a software engineer in this field, you have the opportunity to work on projects that drive business growth and efficiency, from designing enterprise software solutions to building e-commerce platforms. The software industry in business and IT is all about solving problems and optimizing processes, and software engineers play a vital role in making this happen. They work closely with business leaders and IT professionals to understand their needs and develop software solutions that meet those needs. With a focus on emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI), software engineers in this field have the opportunity to work on exciting and innovative projects that transform the way businesses operate. It’s a challenging and rewarding career path, with the chance to work on projects that have a real impact on the success of businesses. Plus, with the demand for skilled software engineers in the business and IT sector on the rise, there’s never been a better time to consider a career in this exciting and lucrative field. So if you’re looking for a career that allows you to use your technical skills to drive business growth and innovation, software engineering in the business or IT sector is definitely worth exploring.

5. Silicon Valley high-tech

Silicon Valley, the hub of technology-driven and innovation-focused companies, has plenty of options for those seeking employment beyond the typical giants like Google or Facebook. A plethora of startups, as well as established digital companies in their early stages, are on the hunt for creative and hard-working software engineers who can help take their businesses to the next level. These companies are not only willing to pay a premium for top talent but also offer luxurious perks akin to those of Google. So, if you’re on the lookout for a stimulating and rewarding career in the software industry, Silicon Valley’s innovative and ever-expanding tech ecosystem is certainly worth exploring.

6. Government and defense

If you’re dead set on secure software development, it’s crucial to bear in mind the government-industrial complex. From municipal and state governments to federal agencies and government contractors, there’s a massive demand for secure software programmers and other cybersecurity professionals with the requisite skills and certifications. These entities are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of top talent in secure software development. So, if you’re looking to make a career in the software industry and want to specialize in secure software development, don’t overlook the tremendous opportunities that the government-industrial complex presents. With an abundance of job openings and lucrative compensation packages on offer, it’s a sector worth exploring for anyone with a passion for security in the software industry.

Future of the IT sector in Bangladesh

As we know earlier, the IT sector in Bangladesh has a promising future as the government steps up its efforts to create a conducive environment for this industry. Bangladesh has a large youth population with tech-savvy millennials who are adept at learning the latest technological advancements. The increase in the number of IT graduates year after year is an indication of the growing interest in this industry. The government is investing in building IT infrastructure and also has initiatives to provide necessary training to the workforce. With these favorable conditions, it is expected that the IT sector will continue to grow at an impressive rate, providing employment opportunities, and contributing to the country’s economic growth. The emergence of new technologies increased market demand, and more investment by the government will further drive the growth of the IT sector in Bangladesh in the coming years.

In a Nutshell

Lastly, we can reach a conclusion, the software industry in Bangladesh has come a long way, but it still has a lot of potential for growth. While the industry faces some challenges, such as a shortage of skilled professionals and outdated infrastructure, it has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. With government support and the determination of the industry players, there is no doubt that the software industry in Bangladesh will continue to thrive in the coming years.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the software industry will play a crucial role in the country’s economic development. As Bangladesh emerges as a hub for innovation and technology, the software industry is poised to become a major driver of growth, job creation, and innovation. And who knows, maybe someday Bangladesh will even give Silicon Valley a run for its money!